Summary
Zimbabwe, known for producing tobacco, is exploring a shift to growing blueberries. A recent trade agreement allows Zimbabwean blueberries to enter the Chinese market tariff-free, which is expected to boost the economy. The demand for blueberries is increasing, and Zimbabwe aims to expand its production to meet this.
Key Facts
- Zimbabwe is Africa's largest tobacco producer.
- There is interest in switching to blueberries, a crop with growing global demand.
- Zimbabwe struck a deal with China, the world's largest blueberry importer, to export blueberries without tariffs.
- Last year, Zimbabwe's tobacco sales reached $1.3 billion, while blueberry exports were $30 million.
- The country plans to increase blueberry production by 50% to 12,000 tonnes this year.
- Zimbabwe's goal is to increase blueberry production to 30,000 tonnes by 2030.
- The agreement includes meeting China's pest and disease control standards.
- The shift to blueberries is seen as an opportunity to strengthen Zimbabwe's struggling economy.
